All aboard!

Driving isn’t solely restricted to Kiwi roads. We’re also a nation of water lovers, jumping in to drive rigid inflatables (RIBs), jet boats, gin palaces, jet skis and all manner of water craft for thrill and leisure. In areas such as coastal Canterbury, the ocean or a river is never too far away, making watercraft […]

Delicious daiquiris

Cocktail or mocktail, a daiquiri is an easy anytime pick-me-up, and a great way to indulge in summer fruits and berries. Considered by many to be one of the six essential cocktails, a classic daiquiri comprises three ingredients only, being rum, fresh lime juice, and sugar. Adding fresh fruit or berries (or both) to the […]

Summer in colour

Refreshing, sprightly hues are back on the rotation and exactly where they belong for seasonal soirées. Pair standout pieces with neutral accessories to balance bursts of colour, and throw on a pair of Mary Janes for effortless, elegant summer style. Curated by Nina Tucker.

Luxury holiday style

Humans crave indulgence and comfort, and holidays are a time to dive into all of that – lounging, eating out, and fulfilling passions that top up our cup. It is why we seek, or strive to seek, luxury apartments, hotels, and baches when we head on holiday. Psychologists say these gorgeous spaces we stay in […]

Aqua aura

It’s that time of the year when days spent pool or beachside become the benchmark for warm weather. Journal your 2025 goals, practise gratitude from the year that was, and soak up the sun – sunblock on. Sip a fruity drink and relax, with friends or in your own company, and keep a cover-up to […]

Pineapple Lime Kisses

After filling our dessert bowls to the brim daily, sometimes a bite-sized treat is all we want for the weeks following Christmas festivities. These Pineapple Lime Kisses from Desi Bakes, Hetal Vasavada’s latest recipe book of indulgent delights, are just what the doctor ordered. Hetal loves these cookies for their bright, holiday-ready colour. INGREDIENTS LIME […]

Holiday home flair

Between small touches and bigger statements, your bach can be exactly what it’s made to be: a dreamy escape haven. Craft that holiday state of mind, a warming welcome for your family and guests, through a fresh, natural feel. Lean into holiday home memories, task your group with finding the best seashell to display, or […]

Animal antics with Mark & Kirsty

Three generations of Cantabrians have grown up with special memories of furry and feathered friends at Willowbank. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch catches up with founding family siblings Kirsty and Mark Willis to look back on its first 50 years. Naturalist, photographer, and writer, Edwin Way Teale once wrote, “Those who wish to pet and baby […]

National architecture winners

The 2024 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards recognised two Canterbury projects amongst the winners, identifying the best of the best architectural design in New Zealand. A Fendalton residence by Sam Connell of  Figure & Ground, featured in the 12 December issue of Metropol, won the award for the best New Home over 300m2, while an […]

The gift of growing

Last-minute presents, or the ‘thank you’ gift you need for the hosts of your holiday escape, find the solution in the form of a plant. Gifting a plant is more than it seems, symbolising growth and life. A timeless tangible offering that dates back centuries, it is still a welcome gift in the 21st century. […]